What does transitionally mean?
Transitionally is an adverb meaning in a manner associated with a transition: a period of change between one condition, stage, or system and another. It can describe an arrangement, status, or action that holds while a change is being carried out, often only temporarily. For example, an old service might remain transitionally available while users move to a new platform, or a temporary rule might apply during a handover. The word is especially useful when the process of change matters, rather than merely the fact that something lasts a short time. It is more formal and less everyday than "temporarily," "in the interim," or "for the time being," and can sound technical in legal, governmental, organisational, or design contexts. It is derived from the noun transition, with the adverbial suffix -ally.
adverbIn a manner involving transition; during the process of changing from one state, stage, or condition to another.
- In or during a transition, especially while changing from one state, stage, system, or condition to another.
"The agreement was intended to operate transitionally until a permanent treaty could be negotiated."
"The old system remained transitionally available while users moved to the new platform."
"Temporary staff were given transitionally adjusted responsibilities while the organisation reorganised."
Transitionally names the space between two states, distinguishing a period of change from something that is merely temporary.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does transitionally come from?
Transitionally was formed during the 19th century by adding the adverbial suffix -ally to transition. Transition comes from Latin transitio, a noun derived from transire, meaning "to pass across" or "to go over." Its relatives include transitional, transitory, and transit, reflecting the shared Latin idea of passing or moving from one place or state to another.
How transitionally is actually used
Relatively formal and less common than "temporarily," "in the interim," or "for the time being." It is especially appropriate when the process of change, rather than merely a short duration, is the important distinction.
Easily confused with transitionally
Transitionally emphasizes a process or state of change, whereas transitorily means temporarily or for a short period.